The classes follow the A.L.I.C.E. strategy, which is an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate. Police said Tuesday they hope to keep people in a calm mindset if they ever encounter an active shooter.

"Knowledge is what we're trying to give people. Give people knowledge so they know what to do, so they've got the tools in the toolbox as to what to do given the situation," Lieutenant Derek Hudson said.

Police have already trained some local businesses in active shooter defense techniques. Employees at the Jones Center, where police will hold the classes said they feel more confident after the three-hour course.

"I can make a difference. I can make a difference by helping others, I can make a difference by knowing my role in the center and where my surroundings are," Joy Heuer, the membership director at the Jones Center said.

The classes examine past active shooter cases like the Portland mall shooting in December where a masked gunman killed two people.

"Sometimes you may have to fight. You may have to prepare yourself mentally and physically to know what to do in case you need to take down an intruder," Lt. Hudson said.

The next class March 21 from 1-4 p.m. at the Jones Center. Police said space is limited.

To sign up, email Sergeant Robert Sanchez at rsanchez@springdalear.gov